PHOENIX – The Pittsburgh Steelers are awaiting a decision from quarterback Aaron Rodgers regarding his future with the team, with team president Art Rooney II stating he expects clarity before the NFL draft next month. The uncertainty surrounding the four-time NFL MVP continues to shape the Steelers’ offseason plans as they prepare for the draft, scheduled to begin April 23.
Rooney addressed reporters Tuesday at the league’s annual meeting, indicating the Steelers need a resolution from Rodgers soon to effectively navigate the draft and free agency. The team spent significant resources acquiring Rodgers last offseason, and his potential return heavily influences their strategy for building a competitive roster. The Steelers currently have Will Howard and Mason Rudolph at the quarterback position.
The situation adds another layer of complexity to the Steelers’ quarterback outlook. General manager Omar Khan stated Monday that “all options are on the table,” including the possibility of drafting a quarterback to bolster the position, according to ESPN. Coach Mike McCarthy has also been in communication with Rodgers, offering insights into the team’s perspective.
Rodgers Weighing His Options
Rodgers, who turns 42 in December, spent the 2025 season with the Steelers after a protracted negotiation period. His time in Pittsburgh was cut short by a season-ending Achilles tendon injury sustained in Week 1. Despite the injury, the Steelers remain hopeful he will return, but Rodgers has been evaluating his options for the upcoming season over the past two months.
In an interview with Pat McAfee on March 4, Rodgers indicated he wasn’t under any immediate pressure to decide. “There’s been no deadline that’s been put in front of me,” Rodgers said. “There’s no contract offer or anything, so there’s nothing that I’m having to debate between. I’m a free agent. … I’m enjoying my time with my wife and enjoying this part of the offseason.”
Rooney confirmed he hasn’t directly spoken with Rodgers but acknowledged the ongoing dialogue between the quarterback and McCarthy. He expressed optimism that a decision is forthcoming, stating, “I think the decision’s probably coming soon.”
Communication Continues Between Rodgers and Steelers
McCarthy echoed Rooney’s sentiment, stating he spoke with Rodgers on Monday night. Whereas he refrained from divulging specifics of their conversation, McCarthy emphasized the positive nature of their communication. “I’m not going to really get into timelines,” McCarthy said at the AFC coaches breakfast Tuesday morning. “We’re in constant communication. Talked to him last night. So I signify, so we’re in a good space and we’ll just continue to work through it.”
McCarthy playfully noted that Rodgers is aware of the attention surrounding his decision, adding, “He says hello.”
Draft Implications and Quarterback Depth
The Steelers’ draft strategy is directly tied to Rodgers’ decision. If Rodgers returns, the team may focus on addressing other positional needs. However, if he opts to retire or sign elsewhere, the Steelers will likely prioritize selecting a quarterback in the draft. Currently, the Steelers have 2025 sixth-round pick Will Howard and veteran backup Mason Rudolph under contract. Howard and Rudolph provide some depth, but the team may seek a more long-term solution at the position.
The NFL draft, hosted in Pittsburgh this year, presents an opportunity for the Steelers to address their quarterback needs if Rodgers does not return. The team will be closely evaluating potential quarterback prospects in the coming weeks.
What’s Next for the Steelers?
The coming weeks will be critical for the Steelers as they await Rodgers’ decision. The team must balance preparing for the draft with the possibility of Rodgers’ return, creating a unique challenge for the front office and coaching staff. The Steelers’ ability to navigate this uncertainty will be crucial to their success in the 2026 season. The next confirmed checkpoint will be the start of the NFL draft on April 23, where the Steelers will either select a quarterback or prepare to welcome Rodgers back for another season.
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